When the mercury rises and the humidity hits triple digits, your hair can quickly become your worst enemy. Between the sweat on your neck and the frizz caused by the moisture in the air, keeping your locks looking polished feels like a full-time job. But summer shouldn’t be about fighting your hair; it should be about embracing styles that keep you cool, comfortable, and undeniably chic.
Whether you’re heading to a beach club, a backyard BBQ, or just trying to survive your morning commute without melting, these 30 summer hairstyles are designed to get your hair off your face and neck while looking effortlessly put together. From classic braids to trendy accessory-focused looks, here is your ultimate guide to surviving the heat in style.
1. Messy Bun
The quintessential summer staple, the messy bun is the “I woke up like this” look that actually works. The key to a perfect summer messy bun is volume and texture. By pulling your hair up high and allowing loose tendrils to frame your face, you create a breeze on your neck while looking relaxed and approachable. It’s the perfect solution for second-day hair that needs a little lift.
2. Bubble Braids
Bubble braids have taken over social media for a reason: they are incredibly easy to do but look like they took hours. By using small elastics to create “bubbles” down the length of a ponytail or pigtails, you keep your hair secure and tangle-free, even on the windiest boat ride or beach day.
3. Low Ponytail
For a more sophisticated summer look, the low ponytail is your go-to. It’s elegant enough for a summer wedding but simple enough for a grocery run. To keep it from looking flat, add a bit of texturizing spray to the tail for some “oomph” and movement.
4. Dutch Braids
Dutch braids (often called “inside-out” French braids) are the ultimate heat-wave armor. Because the hair is woven tightly against the scalp, it stays secure and off your neck. Plus, when you take them out at the end of the day, you’re left with perfect, heatless waves.
5. Space Buns
Fun, youthful, and practical, space buns are perfect for music festivals or outdoor concerts. They distribute the weight of your hair so it doesn’t pull on your scalp, and they keep every single strand away from your face.
6. Silk Scarf
When your hair just won’t behave, cover it with a beautiful silk scarf. You can wrap it around a bun, weave it into a braid, or wear it like a headband. It adds an instant pop of color to a simple outfit and protects your scalp from the sun’s harsh UV rays.
7. High Topknot
The high topknot is the “business” version of the messy bun. It’s tight, secure, and lifts your features. This is the best style for those extremely humid days when you want zero contact between your hair and your skin.
8. Claw Clip Updo
The 90s are back, and the claw clip is the reigning champion of summer hair accessories. It takes five seconds to twist your hair up and clip it, and it causes much less breakage than traditional hair ties. It’s the ultimate “cool girl” accessory for a day at the pool.
9. Fishtail Braid
While it looks complicated, the fishtail braid is just a two-strand weave. It’s tighter and more intricate than a standard braid, which helps it stay intact throughout a long day of summer activities. It’s the perfect blend of boho-chic and practical.
10. Half-Up Topknot
If you’re not ready to commit to a full updo, the half-up topknot is the perfect middle ground. It keeps the hair out of your eyes and off your forehead while allowing you to show off your length. This works exceptionally well for short to medium-length hair.
11. Pineapple Updo
For the curly-haired girls, the “pineapple” is a lifesaver. By gathering your curls at the very front of your head, you prevent them from getting flattened while you sleep or move around. It’s a bold, beautiful look that celebrates natural texture while keeping the neck cool.
12. Slicked Back Bun
The “clean girl” aesthetic is perfect for summer. Using a bit of hair gel or a wax stick, slick your hair back into a tight bun. This style actually looks better as the day goes on, and it’s a great way to mask any oily roots or sweat.
13. Braided Headband
This style is perfect for keeping bangs or short layers off your face. By braiding a small section of hair near the forehead and pinning it behind the ear, you create a natural headband that looks intricate and feminine.
14. Double Ponytail
If you have heavy hair, one ponytail can often sag or cause headaches. By creating two ponytails—one on top of the other—you distribute the weight and create the appearance of significantly more length and volume.
15. Twisted Low Bun
The twisted low bun is a step up from the basic bun. It’s structured and stays in place well, making it ideal for outdoor dinners or summer dates where you want to look refined but stay cool.
16. Boxer Braids
Boxer braids are the gold standard for active summer days. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or playing beach volleyball, these braids will not budge. They keep every hair in place and look incredibly sporty and stylish.
17. Side Braid
The side braid is the ultimate “relaxed” look. It’s easy to do on the go and keeps your hair controlled without feeling too tight or restrictive. It’s a great choice for a casual day of shopping or exploring a new city.
18. Bandana Wrap
Bandanas are a summer essential. They absorb sweat, protect your hair from the sun, and add a retro, Americana vibe to your look. You can choose a classic paisley print or a modern solid color to match your bikini.
19. French Twist
The French twist is no longer just for the office. For summer, try a looser, more “undone” version. It’s an incredibly elegant way to tuck all your hair away and let your shoulders breathe.
20. Pigtail Braids
Simple, nostalgic, and effective. Pigtail braids are perfect for wearing under a hat. Since the braids sit low, they don’t interfere with the fit of a baseball cap or a wide-brimmed sun hat, making them the ultimate beach-to-boardwalk style.
21. Tucked Bun
The tucked bun is the easiest updo in existence. Instead of pulling your hair all the way through the elastic on the last wrap, leave it in a loop. It’s a modern, minimalist look that takes literally seconds.
22. Beach Waves
Sometimes, you just want to let it flow. For those days, embrace the “sea salt” look. Use a salt spray to enhance your natural texture. Even if it gets a bit wild in the wind, that’s the point! It’s the quintessential summer vibe.
23. Barrettes
If you have short hair or a bob, barrettes are your best friend. They can pull back the front sections of your hair that usually fall into your face when you sweat. Plus, they add a touch of sparkle to any outfit.
24. Rope Braid
A rope braid is a fun alternative to the traditional three-strand braid. It’s created by twisting two sections of hair in one direction and then wrapping them around each other in the opposite direction. It’s sturdy, shiny, and looks very “high fashion.”
25. Crown Braid
The crown braid is the ultimate summer wedding hairstyle. It keeps all of your hair completely off your neck and back, and it looks like a work of art. It’s surprisingly sturdy and can last through hours of dancing.
26. Messy Chignon
The chignon is a classic French style that works beautifully for summer. Keep it low and loose for a romantic, effortless look that feels light and airy even in the midday heat.
27. Faux Hawk Braid
For those who want a bit more edge, the faux hawk braid is a fantastic choice. It pulls the hair tight on the sides—where you sweat the most—and adds height and drama to the center.
28. Sleek High Pony
The sleek high pony is the “power suit” of hairstyles. It’s fierce, it’s functional, and it provides an instant face-lift. Use a bit of shine serum to give it that “glass hair” finish that looks so good in the summer sun.
29. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is perfect for those who want a romantic look for a summer evening. It keeps the hair away from your face while allowing the rest to cascade down your back. It’s particularly beautiful on hair with highlights or balayage.
30. Pixie Cut Styling
If you really want to beat the heat, the pixie cut is the ultimate solution. Styling it for summer involves using lightweight pomades to create texture and interest. It’s the coolest (literally!) hairstyle you can have, and it allows you to show off your summer tan and statement jewelry.
Summer Hair Care Tips
No matter which style you choose, remember that summer hair needs extra love.
- Use UV Protection: Just like your skin, your hair and scalp can burn. Look for hair mists with SPF.
- Hydrate: Sun and salt water can strip moisture. Use a deep conditioning mask once a week.
- Rinse After Swimming: Always rinse your hair with fresh water after being in the pool or ocean to remove chlorine and salt.
- Switch to Silk: Use silk scrunchies to prevent breakage, especially when your hair is brittle from the sun.
